Fundraising event to help firefighters

AN afternoon of wine and dancing is set for Invermay next month as part of the local Progress Association’s annual fundraising event.

Now in its sixth year, money raised goes directly towards rural locality’s CFA brigade, with over $19000 donated so far.

Invermay Progress Association vice-president Pam Toom said the event provides an opportunity for community members, new and old, to meet and socialise for a good cause.

“We’re looking forward to seeing the new people that come, and the dancing’s so much fun to watch as well,” she said.

Similar to previous years, the event will consist of food, drinks and live music, with performing artists to be decided.

Wines provided by Wightwick Winery will be auctioned throughout the event, and attendees are asked to bring their own chairs and snacks.

Local CFA brigade members 4th Lieutenant Ross Irving said the fundraiser has become a big draw for the community over the years.

“It’s gotten a bit of a reputation. People will usually go and tell their friends about it so there’s always a few extra people each year,” he said.

The brigade uses the funds to invest in their equipment, and the event has previously helped them raise money for a second smaller truck.

“Our bigger truck went out to South Australia over the new year to fight fires there,” Lieutenant Ross said.

“We were still able to be on call and be ready to deal with anything here with our smaller tanker.”

The fundraiser will take place at 1pm on Sunday, 6 March, at Wightwick Winery, 323 Slatey Creek Road, Invermay. Entry is $10 for adults while children are free.